Name: Crispy Chicken Taquitos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken ((rotisserie chicken works great)); 4 oz cream cheese (softened); ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese; ¼ cup salsa ((mild or spicy)); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon cumin; to taste Salt and black pepper; 8 small flour or corn tortillas; as needed Cooking spray or oil ((for brushing)); to taste Chopped cilantro (for serving); to taste Sour cream (for serving); to taste Guacamole (for serving); to taste Extra shredded cheese (for serving)

Crispy Chicken Taquitos are a comforting and tasty treat that everyone in the family will love. They’re filled with creamy, flavorful ingredients and have a delightful crispy exterior. These little rolls are perfect for a quick dinner, snack, or even a cozy party appetizer.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These taquitos are so easy to make and packed with flavor. They use everyday ingredients you likely have on hand, like chicken and cheese. Plus, they bake in the oven, giving you a healthier option compared to frying. It’s a simple recipe that can be on the table in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Taquitos

Making these taquitos is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You’ll be mixing up a tasty filling, warming some tortillas, and rolling everything up. They bake until golden and crispy, making your kitchen smell amazing. If you can mix and roll, you can definitely make this dish!

What You Need

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
¼ cup salsa (mild or spicy)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
8 small flour or corn tortillas
Cooking spray or oil (for brushing)
Chopped cilantro
Sour cream
Guacamole
Extra shredded cheese

Step-by-Step

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them pliable.
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling onto one side of each tortilla and roll tightly.
Place taquitos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly brush with oil or spray with cooking spray.
Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite toppings.

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Taquitos

These taquitos are great on their own but can be paired with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, rice, or even quesadillas. Adding toppings like sour cream and guacamole gives extra flavor. They are perfect for casual family dinners or a fun game day snack.

How to Store Crispy Chicken Taquitos

To keep your leftover taquitos fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best eaten within 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them before baking. Just pop them in the oven from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time. Reheat leftovers in the oven for the best crispy texture.

Recipe Tips

Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
Warm tortillas to prevent cracking.
Don’t overfill to avoid difficulty rolling.
For extra flavor, experiment with different salsas.
Serve with fresh toppings for a fun twist.

Variations & Swaps

Swap chicken for shredded beef or pork for a different flavor.
Use dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
Add black beans or corn for extra veggies.
Spice it up with jalapeños or hot salsa for heat.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the taquitos ahead of time. Just cover them and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is great for meal prep or entertaining guests. You can also freeze unbaked taquitos and bake them straight from the freezer.

How do I freeze taquitos?
To freeze, assemble the taquitos but do not bake them. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Bake them straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover taquitos?
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warm. This keeps them crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Can I substitute the chicken?
Absolutely! You can use shredded turkey, ground beef, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. Just make sure it’s cooked through before adding to the filling.

What are some good toppings?
Sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro work well. You can also use diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or jalapeños for a nice kick. Pair them with a side of salsa for extra dipping fun!